16 Cheap Weekend Getaways in Ohio for Couples and Families

Posted on December 7, 2022 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on March 7, 2023

Planning a weekend trip in Ohio on a budget? The state is filled with incredible places to explore, from historic small towns to scenic state parks, and everything in between – and most of them can be visited without breaking the bank!

Discover below the best cheap weekend getaways in Ohio for couples or families on a budget. These charming yet affordable inns, B&Bs, and vacation rentals are great places to spend a weekend enjoying the wilderness, visiting historic and cultural places, and making memories with your loved ones.

Travel tip: check the opening time/season for museums and historic homes, especially in small towns, as they might not be open often, or might require booking a few days prior.

Travel tip 2: if you’re planning a last-minute getaway, check out the discounted rates on Expedia (it will automatically show you hotels near you), you might find a gem for half the price.

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The Victorian Guesthouse, Delphos

Average rate: $90 a night – Book here

Located 2-hour north of Columbus, the charming small town of Delphos will make a perfect getaway for couples and families alike. Book a room at the stunning yet affordable Victorian Guesthouse set in a colonial home and furnished with antiques. Each room comes with its own private bathroom and you get access to several common rooms and a fully equipped kitchen.

In town, tour the downtown area where you can visit the Delphos Museum of Postal History and the Delphos Canal Museum, stop by The Creamery for old-fashioned ice cream, or shop for antiques or vintage clothing. In nearby Lima, you’ll find the Allen County Historical Society and Museum where you can tour a log house and a Victorian mansion while learning more about the county’s history.

If you like the outdoors, pack a picnic and head to Kendrick Woods for a hike or to cross-country ski depending on the time of year you visit. If you’re visiting with kids, you’ll find a playground and restrooms there. You’ll also only be 30 minutes away from Grand Lake St. Marys State Park where you’ll find nice beaches and hiking trails, that can be used for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing in the winter.

Berrodin Bed & Breakfast, Akron

Average rate: $100 a night – Book here

Filled with amazing things to do no matter what you’re into, Akron is one of the best weekend getaways in Northeast Ohio. The inexpensive Berrodin Bed & Breakfast awaits for a comfy stay with all the amenities needed. It’s ideal for couples, friends, and families with older kids.

Breakfast is included and you’ll get access to a fully-equipped kitchen. The host is known for his friendliness and can help you plan your trip to Akron. The B&B is also conveniently located, within walking distance of several restaurants and attractions.

In town and around, there are many places to explore. Some of the most popular attractions include the Hower House, the Akron Children’s Museum, and Akron Art Museum, as well as many historic houses that can be toured and parks that are perfect for a stroll.

For something more outdoorsy, you’ll be near several state parks like Portage Lakes State Park and West Branch State Park and right next door to Cuyahoga Valley National Park where you can hike, bike, or go on a scenic train ride.

Camping at Hocking Hills State Park

Average rate: $25 a night – Book here

Hocking Hills State Park, Logan, United States

A list of cheap weekend getaways in Southern Ohio wouldn’t be complete without including Hocking Hills State Park. There are no entrance fees, you can camp there for as low as $25, pack your own food, and enjoy the freedom of the outdoors.

There are seven major hiking areas in Hocking Hills State Park: Ash Cave, Old Man’s Cave, Rock House, Conkle’s Hollow, Cedar Falls, Cantwell Cliffs, and Whispering Cave Trail. All are breathtaking and worth the hike. Most hikes are short and easy and can be done by the whole family.

At the campgrounds, you’ll find all the basic amenities such as showers, toilets, water, fire rings with cooking grates… You can either bring your RV and find a full-hookup space or bring your tent and pick a spot at the park’s primitive campground (closed in winter).

The Pines of Dresden, Dresden

Average rate: $140 a night – Book here

The perfect Ohio getaway for couples and families alike, the Pines of Dresden offers spacious rooms that can accommodate up to 5 people, in the small village of Dresden, not far from Columbus. All rooms have their own private bathroom and views of the garden. Guests can enjoy the outdoor firepit, the common room with its fireplace, a daily hearty breakfast, and a homemade dessert in the evening.

The historic three-story restored farmhouse is located on a 2-acre property and is a haven of peace and tranquility. You’ll be within walking distance of a couple of shops and restaurants and will find plenty of fun things to do nearby.

Not far from town, you can visit the Historic Prospect Place Estate, believed by many to be haunted, then drive to the Historic Roscoe Village, a restored living history town with canal boat rides, costumed guides, and old-fashioned stores. Drive south, and you’ll find Zanesville, one of the largest Amish settlements in the country. There you can visit the Mission Oaks Gardens, the Old Stone Academy Museum, and Putnam Hill Park among others.

Dresden is surrounded by natural areas so you’ll have your pick of hiking trails, scenic views, and outdoor activities of all sorts. Dillon State Park is a short drive away, while Flint Ridge State Memorial and Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve are close by too.

Couples looking for a romantic outing can go wine tasting at Raven’s Glenn Winery & Restaurant or Stone Crest Vineyard. If you’re visiting from May through October head to The Velvet Ice Cream Factory where you can sample some ice cream and tour the factory.

The Doctor’s Inn, Oxford

Average rate: $150 a night – Book here

Located less than an hour’s drive from Cincinnati, Oxford is a small college town that will make a perfect destination for a cheap romantic getaway in southern Ohio or for a family trip. The Doctor’s Inn offers rooms that can accommodate up to 4 persons and is conveniently located within a short drive of restaurants, shops, and recreational activities.

The bed and breakfast as been completely renovated in 2017 so you’ll get all the perks of modernity while staying in a historic place. The rooms are spacious and all feature a private bathroom. A tasty breakfast is served daily, you can enjoy the garden, common room, and porch, and use the grill.

In town, you’ll find several museums and historic homes you can visit as well as a couple of parks and preserves, good for hiking and biking. In summer, you can enjoy the beach at Mounds State Recreation Area or go for a hike there, Whitewater Memorial State Park is also a nice option.

You can also spend some time at Hueston Woods State Park, take a detour to drive by the Black Covered Bridge on your way there. The park is great for hiking, fishing, canoeing, and fossil hunting.

Emerald Necklace Inn Bed and Breakfast, Lakewood

Average rate: $150 a night – Book here

Located right next to Cleveland, Lakewood is a great beach destination in Ohio for people on a budget. Book a room at the affordable Emerald Necklace Inn Bed and Breakfast and spend your weekend relaxing and enjoying lakefront views.

The Emerald Necklace Inn Bed and Breakfast offers rooms that can accommodate up to 4 people each featuring a fireplace, a private bathroom, while some have a view over the park, a balcony, and a spa bath. Breakfast is included and you’ll be located right next to hiking and biking trails along the Rocky River and the scenic Valley Parkway.

You can spend a day driving along the Valley Parkway stopping along the way to enjoy the scenery. Rocky River Park and Lakewood Park are great places to plan a picnic or have fun at the playgrounds with the kids while enjoying views of the lake.

Hope Bed and Breakfast, Canton

Average rate: $100 a night – Book here

Get away from it all at Hope Bed and Breakfast, located among a lush garden in the countryside near Canton, about 20 minutes north of Akron. It will make a perfect weekend getaway in Ohio for families as they have rooms that can accommodate up to 4 people. It’s also ideal for a romantic trip.

Bathrooms are shared, you can use the kitchen, and a free homemade breakfast is served daily. Guests can enjoy taking a stroll through the extensive property, use the outdoor fire pit, and relax on the patio.

Nearby, you can drive to Canton to visit the Canton Museum of Art, the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, and the Football Hall of Fame. If you like the outdoors, go for a hike at Quail Hollow Park where you’ll find several trails and a 48-room manor you can visit.

Couples can plan a romantic outing at Maize Valley Winery & Craft Brewery where you can sample local wines and craft beer while enjoying tasty dishes, and then shopping for local produce. Kids are welcome and they often organize fun events, so make sure to check out their event calendar.

Inn Port D’Vino, Dayton

Average rate: $150 a night – Book here

Dayton is a great destination in Ohio for a weekend getaway. Couples, families, and friends alike will enjoy spending time exploring the area and all that it has to offer. Start by booking a room at the affordable and comfy Inn Port D’Vino where you’ll find clean and comfy rooms that can accommodate up to 4 people.

Some rooms have a spa bath, a fireplace, and/or a kitchen. Breakfast is served daily and you’ll be within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Free private parking is available on-site.

In Dayton, you’ll find many museums, parks, and historic sites. Among the city’s most popular attractions, you’ll find the National Museum of the US Air Force, The Dayton Art Institute, the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, and the RiverScape MetroPark.

For some outdoor adventures, head to Caesar Creek State Park where you can enjoy the beach and swim or kayak, go for a hike or a mountain bike ride, and during winter, do some cross-country skiing. Closer to town, you can go for an easy hike at the Siebenthaler Fen Boardwalk or explore the nature trails at Sycamore State Park (in winter you can go snowmobiling, sledding, cross-country skiing, and ice skating).

Homestead House Bed and Breakfast, Willoughby

Average rate: $130 a night – Book here

Located on the shores of Lake Erie, the Homestead House Bed and Breakfast makes a great weekend escape from Cleveland. You’ll be in the heart of Willoughby’s Historic District where you can enjoy historic buildings, independent stores, and great restaurants (try the tacos at Barrio Willoughby!).

The bed & breakfast is adult-only, making it a top romantic weekend getaway in Ohio for couples. The rooms are comfy and furnished with antiques, all have their own private bathroom while some feature a spa bath and a kitchenette. A tasty breakfast is included and there are free parking spots for guests.

In the area, you’ll find several parks where you can go for a stroll and have a romantic picnic, as well as a couple of public beaches. The Holden Arboretum and the Penitentiary Glen Reservation are also great places to visit if you like hiking and nature.

A 20-minute drive will take you to the gorgeous scenery of Headlands Beach State Park, home to the largest beach in Ohio.

History buffs can tour the James A. Garfield National Historic Site, drive to the Historic Kirtland Village, and visit the 19th-century Squire’s Castle.

Bayberry House Bed and Breakfast, Steubenville

Average rate: $170 a night – Book here

Located next to West Virginia, Steubenville is a peaceful destination surrounded by historic sites and natural areas. The small town is one of the best weekend getaways in Ohio for families, couples, and friends alike. Book a room at the stunning Bayberry House Bed and Breakfast and enjoy a comfy stay.

The restored Victorian bed and breakfast offers a daily homemade breakfast, an extensive garden where guests can wander, and a comfy common room with a fireplace and board games. Each room is unique with its own bathroom and some also include a fireplace or a spa bath.

In town, don’t miss the Historic Fort Steuben (open from May through October) and, if you’re visiting during the Holidays, the Steubenville Nutcracker Village right next to the fort. If you want to go for an easy hike, check out Beatty Park, Fernwood State Forest, or Jefferson Lake State Park where you can also enjoy swimming in summer and ice skating and cross-country skiing in winter.

Berlin Heritage Inn, Berlin

Average rate: $110 a night – Book here

Berlin Heritage Inn, cheap weekend getaway in Ohio

Located in the heart of the Amish Country, the Berlin Heritage Inn will make a perfect Ohio getaway for couples and families alike. Enjoy the slow-paced life, shop for handicrafts, antiques, and local produce, and stroll around charming downtowns.

The Berlin Heritage Inn offers clean, basic, and comfortable rooms for up to 4 people. Some rooms feature a jetted tub or spa bath and a fireplace. A tasty breakfast is served daily and you’ll be within walking distance of stores and restaurants.

Take a drive through the Amish Country to visit some of its top sights. Some of the most popular attractions include the German Culture Museum, Holmes County Open Air Art Museum, the Victorian House Museum, and the Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens, among many others.

If you want to spend some time outdoors, head to Dundee Falls where you can hike and swim at the falls. The area is also known for its wineries, the closest to town is Guggisberg Doughty Glen Winery where you can sample their wine and maybe catch a live music performance. Breitenbach Wine Cellars is also a nice option with tours and tastings of its own wines, plus a lunchtime cafe.

Cabin near Delaware

Average rate: $110 a night – Book here

This cozy vacation rental is a great pick if you are looking for cheap weekend getaways in Ohio. Located a short drive away north of Columbus, the tiny house is ideal for couples and families alike (it can host up to 6 people). It sits on the banks of Ottawa Creek and offers all the comforts needed for a short stay.

The place is ideal to relax and unwind, surrounded by nature. You can enjoy strolling through the property or head to Delaware State Park where you can hike and swim.

Note that this is a rustic cabin, there’s an outhouse but no shower.

Cabin near Athens

Average rate: $140 a night – Book here

One of the best weekend getaways in southern Ohio for people on a budget, this cabin near Athen features gorgeous scenery, a fire pit, and a jacuzzi overlooking a private pond. There’s a big master bedroom and a loft upstairs if you’re traveling with kids or friends. The settings are quiet and peaceful, surrounded by the wilderness.

It’s a great escape from city life for people who want to enjoy nature and get away from it all.

Nearby, you can swim, kayak, or just enjoy the beach at Lake Dow. The Wayne National Forest and Burr Oak State Park are also nearby if you like hiking. Nelsonville is also close by, there you can visit the Nelsonville Train Depot and Robbins Crossing Historic Village.

Guest House in South Webster

Average rate: $100 a night – Book here

Another great inexpensive weekend getaway in Ohio set in a secluded area, this guest house can accommodate up to 4 people and offers all the amenities needed for a comfy stay. It’s far enough from the main road and you can easily go for a stroll from the property.

If you don’t feel like cooking, stop by Roses Eats and Treats for some simple yet tasty dishes. Nearby, you can visit Jackson Lake State Park and spend the day hiking and enjoying the lake – or head to the small town of Portsmouth where you can visit the Floodwall Mural, the historic downtown, and the Southern Ohio Museum and Cultural Center.

A bit further out, Lake Vesuvius offers many trails for all abilities and a beach where you can swim.

Camping at East Harbor State Park, Lakeside Marblehead

Average rate: $25 a night – Book here

Surrounded by Lake Erie, East Harbor State Park is a great place for outdoorsy couples or families, it’s also one of the cheapest destinations for people on a budget. You can set up camp for as low as $25 a night, use the grills to cook your food, and enjoy hiking, swimming, and just relaxing at the beach.

You’ll find over 10 miles of trails, from easy to moderate, and you can rent bikes at the camp store. Spring and falls are prime times to spot migratory birds.

If you’re there over a long weekend, you can spend a day visiting nearby Sandusky, where you’ll find many museums and plenty of entertainment options.

Cabin at Pike Lake State Park

Average rate: $60 a night – Book here

Another great option for people on a budget is to check out state parks that have cabins, most are usually way more affordable than lodges and hotels and will allow spending a weekend away without breaking the bank. Pike Lake State Park is a popular state park in Ohio and offers cabins for as low as $60 a night.

Once you’ve settled in your lodging, head for the beach or go for a hike. At the park, you’ll find a small general store, 5 easy and short hiking trails, and canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats available for rent.

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